Equal in Word of Law: The Rights of Lesbian and Gay People in South Africa

This article chronicles the progression, through various high court and constitutional court cases, that have led to full legal protection of LGBTI rights in South Africa. The writer mentions each case, its effect and what led to it. From the first case that led to the decriminalisation of sodomy to other ‘smaller’ gains like spousal rights in divorces, medical aid and others, the writer details and acknowledges the gains and remaining gaps. N.B. This article was written before the promulgation of the Civil Unions Act.